The Labor Code reform includes remote work

Remote work made it into the Labor Code reform being discussed in the Dominican Congress, as confirmed by Minister Eddy Olivares: the remote modality will be regulated with the same rules as in-person work.

What the proposal says

The remote worker checks in and out through a digital platform — the so-called “digital punch” — with an eight-hour day that must be set in the contract. Any additional time counts as overtime and fits within the Code’s limits. The bill, filed by the Executive since October 2024, also provides for the right to disconnect.

Platforms wait for later

The reform does not yet regulate the digital platform economy (delivery and transportation apps), because the phenomenon is still developing globally. The intention is to wait for the international convention being prepared by the ILO to use that framework as a basis for a future reform.

The practical takeaway

With the law approved, remote workers will have certainty about their schedule, overtime and rest. For companies, the lesson is to get ahead: define hours, digital records and communication channels before the rule requires it.